Alonso: We Want to Win the Derby, and This is My Position on Vinicius
Friday 26-09-2025
Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso appeared at a press conference for the media to discuss tomorrow's match against Atletico Madrid in the seventh round of the Spanish league at the Metropolitano Stadium.

The coach said: "On one hand, there is the preparation for the match, which is always approached in the same way. However, it is a derby match, and it has a special atmosphere. It is a very exciting match, and tomorrow we expect a strong atmosphere that will allow us to play with great energy and focus to achieve victory."

He added: "What Simeone has done with Atletico Madrid in recent years is very important. I am still at the beginning of my career; I like to take things slowly and do what I want. The start has been good, but the road is still long."

Regarding the perfect start to the season: "Every match is difficult to win; we have only played six matches so far. We controlled the flow of the game, but some matches were tough. We will not win just by stepping onto the pitch simply because of the team's badge; we need to maintain the consistency of our performance. If we are used to this fighting spirit from the beginning in every match, we will win. But we must not be complacent in any match."

On the derby atmosphere: "It is a wonderful atmosphere, and we enjoy playing in it. Derby matches are always special. You can feel the derby atmosphere in the club a few days before. Tomorrow, when you know what is at stake, your excitement will increase. We expect a strong atmosphere tomorrow; going to the Metropolitano Stadium with Real Madrid is different due to the fierce competition. It is a great match, and I hope we enjoy it tomorrow as well. The standings of the teams are not important, but the match will be tough. We must put in a great effort."

He continued: "Bellingham and Camavinga are ready and capable of playing in the starting lineup; Jude Bellingham is an attacking midfielder. He can play a role in building attacks and finishing them. He has the ability to cover wide spaces. We need his flexibility and versatility."

Regarding Franco Mastantuno's condition: "Mastantuno has many good qualities; he is only 18 years old. His adaptation has been excellent. I love his competitive spirit. He has a lot of energy. We need to improve his performance, but this competitive spirit is essential for our team. We will enjoy it. Everyone is ready; everyone has recovered well. There are no injuries or anything. We will decide tomorrow who will start."

Regarding the first participation of Mastantuno, Julu, Hausen, and Carreiras at the Metropolitano Stadium: "Everything has a beginning. We need everyone tomorrow to feel this feeling, to live the pre-match and post-match experience. Some celebrate, and others do not, but this is the history of derby matches."

He added: "I haven't watched the recent derby matches because they have changed many players; I focused more on the current situation. Atletico is developing; they made smart changes this year. It is still early, and they will strive to achieve everything this season, not just in terms of morale, but also tactically and physically; it will be demanding. They are a team with great energy. We must be ready for the fast pace."

When asked if he would talk to Vinicius to keep him away from the crowd's chants: "We cannot ignore what is happening. Why should we prepare? Because we have strong weapons. Vinicius is essential for us. I liked what he showed in the last match; I love to see him smile. For us, the preparation will be similar."

He concluded regarding Sergio Busquets' retirement: "First, I congratulate him on his career; he has been a wonderful teammate in the national team, and we enjoyed playing with him a lot. As a midfield partner, he never confused me because he is a player who enhances the team; he is very smart, not the fastest, but very clever; he was always a step ahead to make the right decision. We all talk about Busquets with passion; I hope he enjoys his last matches and gets some rest."

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